CIAO DATE: 03/2010
February 2010
The water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) cluster is widely acknowledged to be among the best functioning within the humanitarian coordination system established in 2005. It is commonly believed that it is easier for the WASH cluster to function well because the standards are agreed, water and sanitation are fairly straightforward interventions, and outcomes are tangible and measurable. While these factors have helped the WASH cluster, they alone have not led to the relative success of the cluster. Interviews were conducted with over 50 individuals, the majority of whom were staff of Oxfam International affiliate organisations, with experience of the WASH cluster in more than 25 countries. Many of the Oxfam views were validated by other NGO colleagues, UNICEF, and other WASH partner staff in the field and at headquarters. The discussions focused on evidence of improved humanitarian response from the WASH cluster and what helps or hinders improvement.
Resource link: The WASH Factor: Oxfam's experiences with humanitarian coordination for water, sanitation, and health [PDF] - 205K